Political Tribalism

How it Hijacks Our Minds and Diminishes Our Humanity

Allen Buchanan (Duke University, USA.)

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Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Routledge
06 May 2025

Philosophy: epistemology & theory of knowledge; Ethics & moral philosophy; Social & political philosophy; Political structure & processes; Political campaigning & advertising

Combining hard data with the author’s personal story of a life in the U.S. South and then as a university professor, this book sheds a new light on tribalistic ideologies. Such ideologies are a deeply troubling feature of civic life in America and in many Western democracies as they erode trust among citizens, sow divisions, and pervert a larger pursuit of truth and understanding. Philosopher Allen Buchanan weaves together his own autobiography with the latest research in psychology, politics, anthropology, and philosophy to better understand the nature and causes of ideological tribalism, its pernicious effects on the individual and society, and the best possible solutions for curbing its spread.

The story begins with Buchanan as a middle‑class, White boy in 1950s Arkansas, absorbing and espousing the racist ideas of his parents, church, and community. This beginning intentionally inculpates the author in subsequent criticisms of tribalism and—because Buchanan left this world and came to reject its values—makes convincing his arguments at the book’s conclusion on how to escape tribalism’s tight grasp. Before offering such final prescriptions, Buchanan examines the evolutionary origins of tribalistic thinking and shows how unyielding group ideologies short‑circuit truth‑seeking, attack the meaning and purpose of a liberal education, undermine a shared national identity, and—thanks to social media—prop up a shallow and false self‑identity.

With a sharp eye toward tribalistic ideologies on the Right and the Left, Political Tribalism: How it Hijacks Our Minds and Diminishes Our Humanity is a compelling call for a healthier and deeper intellectual life of a democracy’s polity and for its individual citizens.

By: Allen Buchanan (Duke University USA.)
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 229mm, Width: 152mm,
Weight: 520g
ISBN: 9781041009610
ISBN 10: 1041009615
Pages: 186
Publication Date: 06 May 2025
Audience: General/trade , College/higher education , ELT Advanced , Primary
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Allen Buchanan is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Arizona. His recent books include The Heart of Human Rights (2013) and Ideology and Revolution (2025).

Reviews for Political Tribalism: How it Hijacks Our Minds and Diminishes Our Humanity

""With intellectual precision and autobiographical candor, this book unpacks the causes and consequences of ideological division. Buchanan skillfully weaves together philosophical analysis, empirical evidence, and personal insight to reveal how tribalism erodes our shared humanity and democracy itself. Both compelling and insightful, it is an invaluable resource for anyone committed to safeguarding democracy’s future."" -- Michael Hannon, Associate Professor of Philosophy, University of Nottingham, UK.